I love my Orvis Helios rods. And while I like to share, there are times where I'd like to loan a different rod out to possible fellow future fly fisherman. Of late I've been having to loan out rods that aren't ideal for fishing conditions (length and wt).

So I'm looking to pickup one or 2 mid flex/medium action 9'5 wt and decent reel.

What should I expect to pay for a rod/reel combo for someone who may only fly fish when they go out with me? Should I saddle them with a real clunker (pun intended) or set em up with a decent outfit that works well and may further their interest (which is the goal).

I think it depends on how much money you have to spend and how much you are invested in giving your friend(s) a good experience when they head out with you. One set I lend out easily is an Albright Topwater fly rod - have one of their 7'6" 3/4 wts and a 9' 5/6 wt with some cheaper reels matched with them. When I fished with the rods I liked them and think they are a good rod to have for a loaner.

We use Albright 5/6 Top Water Rods and GP reels in casting clinics we do and they, though short on aesthetics, perform very well for their modest price. TFO too has oufits that are perfectly acceptable to non critical users.

St. Croix Imperial got lots of great reviews and outperformed many much higher priced rods in a big rod review. I fish a 4 wt. 7'6" which is fast action, i bet a 5wt. 8 foot plus rod would be good. Plus they have many tips made up for I think like $30. I got mine for $140.00 bet you could find a similar deal. I love mine. Very powerful and accurate. I was very pleasantly surprised when first wet a line with it.

Scientific Anglers Species Specific Trout Kit - has the whole enchilada for under $75.00 and can be had at Wally World. Give it as a gift, then they own it and you don't have to mess around with a loaner. Plus they get the hang of using the same outfit - time to hit that learning curve - it only gets better.

I would just pick up a couple of Cabelas or Bass Pro combos. They are surprisingly decent. You could get two full outfits for a 100 -200 bucks, depending on which models you purchase. That way if a newbie breaks one, your not gonna cry.

I'd look at rods in the bargain cave... Redington CTs are being cleared out for their new line to replace the CT.. can be had for around $80 right now.. and they come with a lifetime warranty... this'll help mellow the stinging feeling you'll get when the loaner rod is snapped from newbie tactics

As for reels.. a cheap-o click n pawl will get them by.. it only really has to hold the line.. and FTDs Bull Shark Line is really good.. especially for under $20